TORONTO, ON – The GTHL today released an update on the work being conducted by its Independent Committee on Racism and Discrimination.
On July 17, 2020 that the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL) had appointed Michael Smith and Anastasia Bucsis to serve as co-chairs of the then newly formed Independent Committee.
Smith and Bucsis along with the five committee members bring diverse professional perspectives which include law, justice, EDI education, journalism, multi-sport experience at grassroots and Olympic levels, and experience within the GTHL. The committee members are:
- Justice Harry LaForme
- Karl Subban
- Andrew Kidd
- Leigh Felesky
- Dr. Nicole Forrester
The Committee will examine means in which the GTHL addresses incidents related to racism and discrimination. The scope of the committee’s mandate will be far-reaching including education and training, rules and enforcement, reporting, promoting access and inclusion. Additionally, the committee will be tasked with analyzing how to implement measures designed to increase diversity in leadership positions across the League.
The Committee began its formal work in December 2020 and is making progress toward drafting an interim report.
The Independent Committee will capitalize on discussions from a Town Hall that was held in September of 2020. As well, input from GTHL participants, families, coaches, officials, and experts from outside the league will help provide a framework to assist in making future recommendations to the League.
About the Greater Toronto Hockey League
Founded in 1911, the GTHL is a non-profit organization and the largest minor hockey league in the world. The GTHL registers more than 40,000 annual participants in Markham, Mississauga, Toronto and Vaughan. The purpose of the GTHL is to govern organized hockey for youth within its jurisdiction, and to foster the development of good character, citizenship and sportsmanship.
For media inquiries contact:
Brian Kyla-Lassila
Email: bkyla@gthlcanada.com
Phone: 416-636-6845 ext.236
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